Shaker Style Cabinets: the Secret to Modernizing Home-Decor

As a furniture business owner, staying ahead of the curve in cabinetry design trends is essential for meeting the evolving needs and preferences of your customers. One style that has consistently maintained its popularity over the decades is the iconic shaker style cabinet. By incorporating this versatile cabinet style into your product lineup, you can appeal to a wide range of homeowners seeking high-quality, durable storage solutions that complement a variety of interior design schemes.

What Are shaker style cabinets?

Shaker style cabinets strike a harmonious balance between simplicity and functionality. These timeless kitchen cabinet staples are defined by high-quality craftsmanship, featuring a flat center panel and square edges. Unlike overly intricate designs, shaker style cabinets prioritize practicality, making them suitable for various kitchen styles, from rustic farmhouses to contemporary spaces.

The Evolution Of shaker style cabinets

Their origins trace back to the Shaker religious group - a highly influential Christian sect whose simple, functional design philosophies were a major inspiration for the iconic Shaker-style cabinetry that remains popular in modern furniture design. 

When talking about shaker cabinets, we are talking about emphasizing well-made, unadorned pieces crafted from local, high-quality woods. 

Today, shaker style cabinets continue to blend historical build techniques with modern aesthetics, offering enduring elegance for any kitchen.

Features of shaker style cabinets: 

Shaker style cabinets exhibit several defining features that contribute to their enduring appeal:

Simplicity and Minimalism:

• Shaker style cabinets embrace clean lines and an absence of elaborate ornamentation. Their minimalistic beauty adds understated elegance to any kitchen design.
• This simplicity allows them to seamlessly fit into various kitchen styles, whether modern, traditional, or somewhere in between.

Versatility:

The straightforward design of Shaker style cabinets makes them adaptable to different kitchen aesthetics. Whether your kitchen leans rustic or contemporary, Shaker style cabinets work well.

High-quality Material:

Crafted from durable hardwoods, shaker cabinets prioritize quality and longevity. Their sturdy construction ensures they withstand daily use and last for years.

Learn more: Kitchen Cabinet Door Styles

Understanding Shaker Style for Cabinets: 

As a furniture business owner, the Shaker style cabinet is a design classic that continues to captivate homeowners and interior designers alike. However, as with any design choice, there are also some factors to consider when determining if Shaker-style cabinets are the right fit for your furniture business.

Pros of Shaker-Style Cabinets:

• Timeless Elegance: The clean lines, recessed panel doors, and lack of ornate embellishments give Shaker style cabinets a refined, enduring beauty that transcends passing design trends.
• Versatile Aesthetic: The minimalist, utilitarian nature of Shaker style cabinetry allows it to seamlessly integrate into a wide range of interior design styles.
• High-Quality Craftsmanship: Rooted in the meticulous woodworking traditions of the Shaker religious movement, Shaker-style cabinets are renowned for their exceptional construction and attention to detail.
• Broad Market Appeal: The classic, understated elegance of Shaker style cabinets appeals to a diverse range of homeowners, from young families to downsizing retirees.

Cons of Shaker-Style Cabinets:

• Limited Customization: The simplistic Shaker design can provide fewer opportunities for personalization and unique design elements compared to more elaborate cabinet styles.
• Overusing can be Repetitive: While the Shaker aesthetic is timeless, some customers may perceive it as too plain or lacking in visual interest, especially if it is not complemented by thoughtful accessorizing or other design elements.
• Higher Production Costs: The precise craftsmanship and clean lines associated with Shaker style cabinetry can translate to higher manufacturing costs, which may impact your pricing and profit margins.

Learn more: Understanding the Cost of Cabinetry

By carefully weighing the pros and cons of Shaker-style cabinets, you can determine whether this classic design aligns with the unique needs and preferences of your target market. Incorporating Shaker-inspired cabinetry into your furniture offerings can help you capture the enduring appeal of this design aesthetic while providing your customers with high-quality, functional storage solutions.

Discovering the Variety of Shaker cabinet finishes

Painted finishing

• Shaker style cabinets can be painted in various colors, with white being a classic choice. This finish provides a clean and timeless look, perfect for modern kitchens.
• Other color options include blue, green, red, gray, and black, allowing you to customize your cabinets to match your style.

Learn more: Top 10 Modern Cabinet Manufacturers Revolutionizing the Industry

Burnished finishing

Burnished finishes enhance the natural beauty of wood grain. Clear coats or light staining are used to highlight the wood’s color and texture, creating an elegant and warm appearance.

Thermofoil finishing

Thermofoil is a sleek, smooth finish achieved by applying a vinyl layer to the cabinet surface. It’s easy to clean and offers a modern, sophisticated look.

Polyurethane Finishing

Polyurethane provides a durable protective layer for Shaker style cabinets. It enhances the wood’s natural color while ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear.

Learn more Cabinet Finishes

Most Popular Designs for Shaker Style Cabinets

When it comes to kitchen cabinetry, the timeless Shaker style continues to captivate homeowners and interior designers alike. Shaker style cabinets can elevate the aesthetic of any kitchen. As a furniture business owner, staying up-to-date on the most popular Shaker-style cabinet designs can help you better cater to the evolving preferences of your customers. Let's explore four of the top Shaker-style cabinet trends: 

Modern shaker style cabinets

• Clean lines and simplicity define modern Shaker cabinets. These cabinets maintain the classic Shaker framework but incorporate sleek hardware, often in matte black or brushed nickel finishes.
• Modern Shaker kitchens emphasize functionality, minimalism, and a neutral color palette. They work well in urban apartments and contemporary homes.

Transitional Shaker style cabinets

• Transitional Shaker style cabinets strike a balance between classic and modern. They blend the timeless Shaker design with subtle contemporary elements.
• Look for features like glass-front upper cabinets, mixed materials (such as wood and metal), and a harmonious color scheme. These cabinets suit versatile kitchen styles.

Contemporary Style

• Contemporary Shaker style cabinets push the boundaries while maintaining the essence of Shaker design. They may feature unconventional colors, asymmetrical layouts, and unique hardware.
• Think bold blues, grays, or even deep greens. Open shelving and integrated appliances contribute to the contemporary vibe.

Craftsman Style Kitchen

• Craftsman Shaker style cabinets pay homage to the Arts and Crafts movement. These cabinets emphasize natural materials, handcrafted details, and warm tones.
• Look for exposed joinery, stained wood finishes, and decorative hardware. Craftsman kitchens evoke a cozy, artisanal feel.

By offering a diverse range of Shaker-inspired cabinet designs, from modern minimalism to classic Craftsman, you can cater to the diverse preferences and design sensibilities of your customers, positioning your furniture business as a trusted source for exceptional kitchen cabinetry.

Types of Shaker Style Cabinets for Home-Decor

Offering a variety of Shaker style cabinet construction options can help you, as a furniture business owner, cater to the diverse needs and preferences of your customers. From classic overlay designs to contemporary frameless configurations, understanding the unique features and benefits of each Shaker cabinetry type can empower you to guide your clients towards the perfect solution for their kitchen renovation or new build.

Learn more: What are Frameless Cabinets?

Overlay Shaker style cabinets

Overlay Shaker style cabinets are the traditional and most common configuration, featuring doors and drawers that overlap the cabinet frame. This creates a clean, streamlined aesthetic. Overlay Shaker style cabinets are a versatile choice.

Inset Shaker style cabinets

For a more refined, built-in look, inset Shaker-style cabinets offer a premium option. In this construction, the doors and drawers are flushed within the cabinet frame, creating a seamless, integrated appearance. Inset Shaker cabinets exude an air of elevated craftsmanship, making them a popular choice for high-end kitchen designs since this configuration can provide a slightly more minimal visual aesthetic compared to overlay styles.

Frameless Shaker style cabinets

Embracing a contemporary, European-inspired approach, frameless Shaker style cabinets offer a sleek, modern look. In this construction, the doors and drawers are directly attached to the cabinet box, eliminating the traditional face frame. This results in a clean, flush-mounted appearance that emphasizes the simplicity of the Shaker design. Frameless Shaker cabinets often pair well with other modern kitchen elements, such as handleless hardware and seamless countertops.

Learn more: Framed vs Frameless Cabinets - Which one is better for contractors?

Finding Suppliers of the best Shaker style Cabinets

As a furniture business owner, sourcing high-quality Shaker style cabinets from reputable suppliers is crucial to meeting the growing demand for this timeless kitchen design. To ensure your customers have access to the best Shaker style cabinetry options on the market, follow these tips for finding the top suppliers in the industry.

Online Research:

• Start by searching online using relevant keywords such as “Shaker style cabinet suppliers,” “high-quality Shaker cabinets,” or “custom Shaker kitchen cabinets.”
• Explore websites, directories, and online marketplaces that specialize in cabinetry. Look for suppliers with positive reviews and a strong reputation.

Learn more: Industrial cabinet manufacturers

Local Showrooms and Stores:

• Visit local kitchen and home improvement showrooms. They often display various cabinet styles, including Shaker cabinets.
• Speak with knowledgeable staff who can guide you to reputable suppliers or manufacturers.

Ask for Recommendations:

• Seek recommendations from friends, family, or interior designers. Personal referrals can lead you to reliable suppliers.
• Join home improvement forums or social media groups and ask for suggestions from fellow homeowners.

Attend Home Expos and Trade Shows:

• Home expos and trade shows feature vendors and suppliers. Attend these events to see Shaker cabinets firsthand and connect with suppliers.
• Gather business cards or contact information for follow-up.

Contact Custom Cabinet Makers:

• Look for custom cabinet makers who specialize in Shaker style. Custom cabinets allow you to tailor the design to your specific needs.
• Inquire about their materials, craftsmanship, and pricing.

Check Manufacturer Websites:

• Visit the websites of cabinet manufacturers. Many offer a “Find a Retailer” or “Where to Buy” section.
• Use these tools to locate authorized dealers or retailers near you.

Learn more: Buy Kitchen Cabinets

Read Reviews and Ratings:

• Before making a decision, read reviews and ratings for different suppliers. Look for consistent positive feedback and any potential red flags.
• Websites like Yelp, Google, and Houzz can provide valuable insights.

Compare Prices and Quality:

• Obtain quotes from multiple suppliers. Compare prices, materials, and warranties.
• Remember that the best Shaker cabinets balance quality and affordability.

Visit Showrooms or Warehouses:

• If possible, visit showrooms or warehouses to inspect the cabinets in person. Pay attention to construction, finishes, and hardware.
• Ask about lead times and delivery options.

Ask Questions:

• Don’t hesitate to ask suppliers about their manufacturing process, wood types, and customization options.
• Inquire about installation services or recommendations for professional installers.

Let's Talk with Our Experts!

Explore the Distinctions between Shaker Style Cabinets and Traditional Cabinets

Understanding the key differences between Shaker-style cabinets and their traditional counterparts can empower furniture business owners to guide clients towards the perfect cabinetry solution for their kitchen renovation or new build. Both the Shaker style cabinets and classic style cabinets hold appeals of their own merits. Each of them offers unique advantages that cater to diverse design preferences. 

Shaker Style Cabinets vs. Flat Panel Cabinets

Shaker-style cabinets are distinguished by their recessed center panels, creating a clean, minimalist aesthetic that emphasizes the natural beauty of the wood. In contrast, flat-panel cabinets feature a smooth, unadorned surface, often with a sleek, contemporary appearance. 

While flat-panel designs can seamlessly integrate into modern and transitional kitchen styles, Shaker-style cabinets offer a more timeless, versatile option that can effortlessly complement a wide range of design sensibilities, from farmhouse to industrial.

Shaker Style Cabinets vs. Traditional Cabinets

Traditional cabinet styles, often characterized by ornate raised panels, intricate moldings, and decorative hardware evoke a sense of classic elegance and timeless charm, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a more formal, opulent kitchen aesthetic. 

Shaker-style cabinets, on the other hand, prioritize functionality and simplicity, with a focus on clean lines and a subtle, understated beauty that can seamlessly blend into both classic and contemporary kitchen environments.

Let's Chat – Get the Details

Ultimately, the choice between Shaker style cabinets and the other designs ultimately comes down to the specific design preferences and aesthetic goals of your clients. By educating your customers on the distinct features and benefits of each cabinet style, you can empower them to make an informed decision that aligns with their personal taste and the overall vision for their kitchen. This level of guidance and expertise can position your furniture business as a trusted partner in kitchen renovations and new build projects, setting you apart from competitors and driving customer loyalty.

FAQs